Top 10 Most Controversial TLC Shows

TLC has had more than few controversial shows over the years. For this list, we’ll be looking at series from the network that have sparked questions, concerns, scandals, and contentious debates. Our countdown includes “90 Day Fiancé” (2014-), “Gypsy Sisters” (2013-15), “Sister Wives” (2010-), “Jon & Kate Plus 8” (2007-17), and more! Are there any outrageous shows we missed? Let us know in the comments!

#10: “Toddlers & Tiaras” (2009-16)

Most reality series that star children are bound to attract skeptics. With a premise surrounding intense preparation for beauty pageants, “Toddlers & Tiaras” was no different. Despite its popularity and high ratings, the show quickly gained criticism due to its regular display of provocative outfit choices, damaging beauty standards, and questionable parenting styles. Controversy ultimately stemmed from concerns regarding the well-being of the young contestants, who often didn’t seem nearly as interested or competitive as their mothers. Many girls have cried and broken down, stirring up debates about whether flippers, fake tans, heavy makeup, and spending loads of money to achieve the perfect look are good examples for children.

#9: “Gypsy Sisters” (2013-15)

As a spin-off to the equally controversial, “My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding” (xref), this series shared a look into the lifestyle of Romanichal women. Following the West Virginian Stanley family, the show received low ratings and condemnation, likely due to its perpetuation of cultural stereotypes and cast member scandals. The stars routinely behaved questionably, as marrying young and instigating drama served as the show’s focal points. Even more problematic were the legal woes of one of the siblings, who pleaded guilty to her involvement in a fraudulent scam. With all this considered, it was no surprise that TLC opted to pull the show from its cue.

#8: “My 600-lb Life” (2012-)

Detailing stories of morbid obesity, the series sheds light on daily struggles faced by bariatric patients carrying a debilitating amount of weight. While ideas of embarking on weight loss journeys and improving one’s health are inherently positive, the show has generated negative reactions during its ten-years-and-counting on air. Some viewers have deemed it exploitative, as patients are regularly shown bathing in vulnerable scenes perceived as invasive and unnecessary. Further controversy has emerged amidst legal suits, which alleged negligence, medical payment failures, and insufficient mental health treatments. With dire circumstances at the forefront, it seems the fine line between providing entertainment and preserving patient well-being has been crossed.

#7: “Jon & Kate Plus 8” (2007-17)

It’s no secret that TLC is keen to create shows about unique families. An earlier installment of this trend, this series followed the Gosselins, a unit made up of Jon, Kate, and their eight children. Relatable marital quarrels and wholesome scenes with the adorable kids initially gained the program high viewership. But things took a turn when intensified fighting and spanking instilled concerns of verbal and physical abuse. Kate’s behavior as a wife and mother resulted in backlash, and both parents were condemned for seemingly using their kids as a ticket to money and fame. The pair’s rocky dynamic and cheating rumors led to a messy divorce and the show’s eventual cancellation.

#6: “Breaking Amish” (2012-14)

Anabaptists deviating from the Amish lifestyle proved to be an intriguing concept. “Breaking Amish” saw young adults contemplate staying put in their communities or leaving them behind to break free from the constraints of religion. Though watching navigations of love, work, and drama in the new world of New York City provided entertainment, the show wasn’t without controversy. Alleged false portrayals of the cast and suspicions regarding fact and fiction damaged the series’ credibility, considering the reality show was supposedly unscripted. Thanks to exposed secrets from cast members’ pasts and evidence pointing to misrepresentations, the program was deemed staged and contrived.

#5: “Sister Wives” (2010-)

Any series focusing on religious beliefs is likely to spark debates. Since its premiere in 2010, “Sister Wives” has showcased the polygamous lifestyle of Kody Brown, his four spouses, and their combined eighteen kids. The legality of Brown’s multiple unions drew criticism from the start and later resulted in a family move to escape potential consequences. Moreover, Brown’s third wife, Christine, separated from the family in 2021, and he and his first wife, Meri, divorced even though she remained part of the family. Meri also experienced a scandal of her own, as an unfortunate catfish affair played out on camera. Many have perceived the sister wives as unhappy with their situation, raising questions about polygamy and its impacts.

#4: “Unexpected” (2017-)

A more recent TLC series airing on the network is “Unexpected,” which tells the stories of pregnant teens and their partners, families, and experiences carrying children so young. Reminiscent of controversial MTV shows like “16 and Pregnant” and “Teen Mom,” the show was poorly received by those who had seen the idea many times before. In addition to claims of copying existing series, concerns surrounding vulnerable teenagers’ privacy and the potential glorification of teen pregnancy are unsettling to some viewers. Many scenes show displays of immaturity and shocking behavior, begging the question of minors’ place in the world of reality
television.

#3: “90 Day Fiancé” (2014-)

As TLC’s most popular franchise with an abundance of spin-offs, “90 Day Fiancé” has become somewhat of a phenomenon. The series has seen great ratings success, but its premise around the K-1 visa process is highly disputed amongst skeptics and critics, including cast members’ friends and family. From the start, the show quickly raised eyebrows as U.S. citizens and their foreign fiancés apply for visas and must marry within ninety days. Ulterior immigration motives are primary concerns for viewers, in addition to the perpetuation of cultural stigmas, rushed timelines, and seemingly forced relationships. It’s safe to assume the franchise won’t be axed any time soon, so social media debates and widespread suspicions are likely to rage on.

#2: “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” (2012-14)

First making her mark on “Toddlers & Tiaras,” Alana Thompson, better known as “Honey Boo Boo,” continued to be unapologetically herself in a show starring her polarizing family. Offering a look into their household, Alana, her siblings, and her parents, Mama June and Sugar Bear, shocked the world with their outrageous dynamics and personalities. Critics deemed the show offensive and questionable, with unhealthy habits, interesting parenting, and brash conversations regularly being shown. But what truly made the show a contentious topic was the revelation that Mama June had relations with convicted sex offenders, one of whom mistreated one of her own daughters. This ultimately led to the show’s cancellation after a four-season run.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Cheer Perfection” (2012-13)

Harsh Parenting & Unrealistic Expectations in a World of Competitive Cheerleading

“Hoarding: Buried Alive” (2010-14)

Exploiting a Debilitating Disorder in the Name of Entertainment

“Buying Naked” (2013-14)

A Nudist Real Estate Agent Works With Clients Who Share Her Unique Lifestyle

“Seeking Sister Wife” (2018-)

Kody Brown Isn’t the Only TLC Husband With Multiple Wives

#1: “19 Kids and Counting” (2008-15)

Arguably TLC’s most controversial family is the Duggars, a unit led by Jim Bob and Michelle who bore a whopping nineteen children. As devout Baptists, the family enforced strict standards in accordance with conservative beliefs. The kids’ Internet access was restricted and they were expected to dress modestly, practice abstinence, and engage in chaperoned courtship. While this was enough to attract criticism, things got worse when political views and hidden scandals were exposed. It was first revealed that the Duggars were against progressive legislation for the transgender community. But most infamously, news later broke that the eldest son, Josh Duggar, mistreated young girls, including some of his sisters. Amidst serious allegations and petitions calling for cancellation, the series inevitably met its end.